Historic Moment: Pandas Returning to the US for 45th Anniversary of South Korea-US Diplomatic Relations!

Historic Moment: 45th Anniversary of South Korea-US Diplomatic Relations, Pandas Returning to the US Soon!

In a historic moment, South Korea and the United States are celebrating the 45th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. As part of the commemoration, Wang Yi, a member of the Chinese Communist Party’s Central Political Bureau and Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that pandas will be returned to the United States within this year.

Promise of Panda Return

According to the AP news agency, Wang Yi made a promise during a state visit to Beijing that by the end of this year, giant pandas will be sent back to the United States, with a particular focus on California.

Continued Cooperation

Chinese President Xi Jinping has acknowledged the role pandas have played as envoys of friendship between China and the United States. He expressed China’s readiness to continue cooperating with the United States in panda conservation efforts and to fulfill the hopes of California residents for a strong bilateral relationship.

Emphasis on Peaceful Coexistence

Wang Yi stressed the importance of maintaining peaceful coexistence between China and the United States, just as they did 45 years ago when diplomatic relations were established. He emphasized that cooperation between the two countries is not an unnecessary choice but a necessary solution to be pursued for the benefit of both nations and the world.

Adapting to Global Changes

Wang Yi highlighted the significant global changes that have taken place over the past century and emphasized the need to navigate the course of Sino-US relations amidst these changes. He also called on the United States to respect China’s development path and core interests, criticizing any sanctions and power struggles that may hinder bilateral relations.

Background of Diplomatic Relations

In 1979, the United States officially severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan and established relations with the People’s Republic of China, commonly known as China, to prevent conflicts from escalating into war as China emerged as a regional power. Since then, both countries have managed their diplomatic channels to avoid war and promote stability.

Panda Leasing

Since the first panda was sent to Washington D.C. in 1972, China has leased pandas to various zoos due to their increasing popularity. However, as leasing contracts gradually expire, the number of pandas in the United States has been decreasing.

The Return of Pandas

In recent years, pandas from the San Diego Zoo and the National Zoo in Washington D.C. have returned to China after their leasing contracts expired. Currently, the Atlanta Zoo is home to four remaining pandas.

Source: Newsis